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Horizon Vascular Specialists
What is genicular artery embolization (GAE)?
GAE is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure designed to relieve knee pain caused by osteoarthritis and other types of knee arthritis. It works by reducing blood flow to inflamed areas of the knee joint, helping reduce pain and improve mobility without the need for total knee replacement.
Using imaging guidance, a trained specialist (usually an interventional radiologist) threads a tiny catheter through the blood vessels and into the genicular arteries, then releases microscopic beads to block abnormal blood flow to the painful areas of the knee.
This helps relieve pain in the affected knee and restore function—without damaging surrounding soft tissues.
Why choose GAE for chronic knee pain in Maryland?
Many treatments—such as topical analgesics, pain relievers, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs—offer only temporary pain relief. GAE provides a longer-term solution that can:
- Relieve knee pain caused by arthritis or overuse
- Reduce swelling, pressure, and stiffness
- Help you stay physically active
- Delay or eliminate the need for joint surgery
If you’ve tried physical therapy, knee braces, or ice packs with little success, GAE may be the next step toward meaningful joint pain relief.
What conditions can GAE treat?
GAE is most effective for chronic pain linked to arthritis flare-ups and persistent inflammation inside the knee joint. If you experience knee pain that worsens with activity, doesn’t improve with rest or a cold compress, and hasn’t responded to medication, injections, or physical therapy, GAE may be a worthwhile option to consider.
Although not intended for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, meniscus injuries, or other minor injuries from sports, it’s ideal for arthritis-related aching pain that stems from joint inflammation rather than structural damage.
This procedure is commonly recommended for chronic knee conditions, such as:
Osteoarthritis (OA)
The most common form of arthritis, OA is caused by gradual wear and tear on the knee joint, often due to aging or overuse. It leads to cartilage breakdown, which can worsen pain over time and make it difficult to walk or bend the knee.
Over-the-counter medications and physical therapy may offer short-term relief, but GAE can provide pain relief without surgery for persistent cases.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system targets the lining of the joints by mistake. This immune response can lead to swelling, stiffness, and discomfort in the knees and other joints throughout the body. RA often results in a painful joint, along with stiffness and swelling that may extend into the lower leg.
Many health care providers recommend physical therapy to preserve mobility, but when conservative treatments fail, GAE can ease pain without relying solely on medication.
Post-traumatic arthritis
This type of arthritis can develop after knee injuries such as fractures or ligament tears. Damage from the original trauma may cause joint instability and cartilage loss, eventually leading to chronic pain and stiffness. For people who feel pain long after an injury and want to avoid surgery, GAE offers a minimally invasive way to treat knee pain.
Psoriatic arthritis
Linked to psoriasis, this inflammatory arthritis can affect the knees, causing both pain and swelling. It may mimic symptoms of RA and can contribute to severe pain during flare-ups. When joint discomfort persists even with over-the-counter treatments, GAE can help ease knee pain and reduce the frequency of flare-related discomfort.
Lupus-related arthritis
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can trigger inflammation in the knee joint and surrounding soft tissues. People with lupus-related arthritis may experience joint stiffness and occasional patellofemoral pain—a type of discomfort felt in the front of the knee or behind the kneecap, especially during movement like climbing stairs or standing up.
While compression bandages, rest, and physical therapists may help, GAE may be considered when other methods don’t provide pain relief.
What to expect during the procedure
The entire GAE process typically takes 1–2 hours:
- A tiny catheter is placed through a small incision in the wrist or groin.
- Using imaging, the doctor targets the knee’s genicular arteries.
- Microbeads are inserted to reduce excess blood flow to painful areas.
Patients go home the same day. Most resume light physical activity within 2–3 days and return to normal movement within a week.
Your GAE care journey in Maryland
Step 1: Online risk assessment
Start by completing our free screening to see if you qualify for GAE.
Step 2: Consultation and planning
A knee pain doctor near you will review your history, conduct a physical exam, and recommend a personalized treatment plan.
Step 3: GAE procedure and recovery
The GAE procedure is quick, low-risk, and gets you back on your feet without a lengthy recovery.
FAQs: Chronic Knee Pain Treatment in Maryland
What are the most common causes of knee pain?
Common causes of knee pain include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, overuse injuries, cartilage breakdown, and tight muscles. Over time, joint degeneration and loss of joint fluid can make the pain worse. Everyday wear and tear, old injuries, and aging all increase risk for long-term knee pain and stiffness.
Is GAE safe?
Yes. When performed by trained interventional radiologists, GAE is a safe procedure. Side effects are rare and may include mild soreness or temporary fatigue.
How long does GAE pain relief last?
Many patients experience pain relief for 12 to 24 months or more. In some cases, a second procedure may be considered.
Do I need surgery if I have knee arthritis?
Not necessarily. GAE offers a middle ground between temporary pain relief and invasive joint surgery, especially for those with arthritis pain that limits daily function.
Can losing weight help reduce knee pain?
Yes. Losing weight can ease pressure on the knee joint and lower the risk of knee problems, especially in patients with arthritis.
Who is a good candidate for GAE in Maryland?
You may benefit if you:
- Have chronic knee pain from arthritis
- Want to prevent knee pain from worsening
- Haven’t responded to physical therapy or medications
- Prefer non-surgical knee pain relief
What kind of doctor should I see for knee pain?
Look for a knee pain specialist, an interventional radiologist, or a provider affiliated with sports medicine, physical medicine, or rehabilitation. These professionals treat common knee injuries and manage joint pain using both conservative and advanced non-surgical approaches.
Next steps: Find a knee pain doctor in Maryland
Ready to treat painful knees without major surgery? Knee Pain 360 connects you to specialists offering genicular artery embolization and other advanced options. Whether your knee pain is caused by arthritis, overuse, or long-term joint damage, we’re here to help you move more freely and regain confidence in your everyday routine.
Still have questions? Contact us anytime at info@kneepain360.com.